The 5P SHOWCASE EXPO on February 25-26-25 at the Fox Cities Expo Center in Appleton, WI was an outstanding success! The Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG) and the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) would like to thank our 110 Exhibitors and Sponsors and our 575 guests. We want to thank our guest speakers: Michael Manley of Amazon, Paul Murphy of Menasha, Mark Hunter of Hoffmaster, Heather Prah of IDDBA, Natha Dempsey of Foodservice Packaging Institute, and the outstanding Panel from the University of Wisconsin.
The Presentations were magnificent with a packed audience addressing current issues impacting our industries for the two-day event. The 5P Showcase surpassed your expectations with a diverse range of exhibitors! We had an excellent networking event with over 275 people hosted by Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Hurckman Mechanical and McClone Insurance.
Exhibitors
Zeta Group
BPM Inc
Vissum
Ahlstrom
Display Pack
OEC
Rocket Industrial
Sierra Coating
Anchor Packaging
Alajan Packaging
Marty with Hoffman crew
Networking
2025 Expo Speakers
2025 Expo Speakers Heather Prach and Natha Dempsey with Marty
IDDBA’s Insight to 2025 Guiding Trends Leading the Dairy, Deli and Bakery Industries
Written by Heather Prach
Heather Prach serves as the Vice President of Education and Industry Relations at the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA), a nonprofit organization based in Madison, Wisconsin, that has been serving the dairy, deli, bakery, cheese, and supermarket foodservice industries since 1964. In her role, Prach oversees the development and delivery of educational resources and industry insights to IDDBA members. Through these initiatives, Prach continues to support IDDBA’s mission to provide members with the tools and knowledge necessary to grow their businesses in the dynamic dairy, deli, and bakery sectors.
In today’s fast-paced world, consumers are increasingly prioritizing convenience when it comes to meal prep. With busy schedules, many are turning to pre-made meals or partially prepared ingredients that simplify cooking without sacrificing flavor. According to Datassential’s 2024 report, half of all at-home meals now involve pre-made elements, showcasing the growing preference for ready-to-eat or easy-to-assemble options. These meals save time and reduce the complexity of cooking, while still delivering delicious results.
“Consumers are looking for efficiency in the kitchen,” says Jonna Parker from Circana. Pre-cooked proteins, meal kits, and ready-to-heat dishes have become go-to choices for many, turning what would be a complex recipe into a straightforward assembly task. Appliances like microwaves and air fryers, which are used more frequently by younger generations, are also driving this shift toward quicker meal prep.
Despite the focus on convenience, today’s consumers still care deeply about taste and quality. There is a noticeable trend toward upgrading pre-made foods with creative touches. Store-bought pizzas can be transformed into gourmet meals with fresh toppings like burrata or arugula, while pre-packaged desserts can be enhanced with artisanal sauces or a sprinkle of edible gold dust. This trend demonstrates that indulgence and convenience don’t have to be mutually exclusive—small changes can make a big impact.
Sustainability is also playing a key role in shaping food trends. Consumers are more conscious than ever about their environmental impact, favoring brands that offer eco-friendly packaging and sustainable food practices. In particular, multi-purpose products that cater to different meal types or dietary needs are growing in popularity. Reducing food waste and embracing sustainable practices are becoming essential for companies to stay in tune with consumer values.
The demand for innovation in the food industry continues to grow. With 86% of consumers eager to try new foods, there is an increasing desire for fresh, exciting culinary experiences. From limited-time offerings to multicultural flavor explorations, consumers are seeking bold, unexpected dishes. Pop-up flavors and exclusive collaborations are creating buzz, tapping into consumers’ hunger for novelty.
Social media is further fueling food trends, especially among younger generations. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram not only shape what people eat but also drive purchasing decisions. Viral food trends, quirky flavor combinations, and nostalgia-driven creations are increasingly becoming part of the cultural zeitgeist. Consumers are more likely than ever to try something new simply because they’ve seen it online.
As consumer preferences evolve, the food industry is adapting by offering products that are quick, creative, and sustainable. The demand for convenient, flavorful, and innovative meals is stronger than ever, and brands that can balance these needs will thrive in this fast-moving market. From transforming simple ingredients into luxury meals to introducing new flavors, the future of food is all about simplicity, indulgence, and endless possibilities.
Get links to the latest news, events, stories, and interviews from our 5P news sponsors. Our goal is to remind the decision-makers in Wisconsin of the importance of our industry both historically, and more importantly, into the future.
Read the latest 96 Stories and Links on the Internet below.
Why did the Green Bay Innovation Group and the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association choose Appleton, WI to host the 5P Showcase Expo on February 25-26-25? Wisconsin and the Great Lakes States companies are the largest suppliers of Packaging and Food Products in the United States! Wisconsin has sixty-nine label companies with close to ninety plants and the Converting Industry has over three hundred companies involved in Converting in Wisconsin. Appleton, WI, and the surrounding area has over 110 companies involved in the Packaging Market. Appleton was the founding of the Paper Industry with the likes of Kimbery-Clark, Appleton Paper, Neenah Paper and twelve other paper companies on the Fox River. Appleton is called the PAPER VALLEY! Today, we need to call Appleton the PACKAGING VALLEY!
The Green Bay Innovation Group has done extensive research on the 5P and Converting Industries. We are breaking out each industry to better understand the impact on the Wisconsin Economy. We will focus on the label industry.
The Label demand in the United States is projected to reach $21.9 billion by 2033. Sales of labels are valued at $15.7 billion in 2023 to expand at 4.3% CAGR annually in the USA and the global market will reach $67.36 by 2033. The labels in food packaging are 25% of the market share of label production followed by the Pharmaceutical Industry and the Chemical Industry! We are witnessing that new requirement by Governments, Transparency, Brand awareness, and Sustainability are driving the growth of the label market. The printed label and packaging market in 2024 are valued at $517.9 billion.
We are witnessing the growing adoption of digital printing increasing the consumption of sleeve labels. Digital printing technologies provide advantages over other printing technologies in several categories such as cost, time, and lower barrier requirements in the packaging sector. Sleeve labels used in beverage bottles and containers are required for aesthetic design, and coloring options to meet the market demand with a much broad range of color. However, Flexo Printing remains the biggest printing technology for high-volume label production followed by offset printing.
The label printing industry is an ever-evolving market. Companies are looking for innovative labels to differentiate themselves, meet compliance regulations, improve transparency, sustainability, tracking, and inventory!
The 5P Showcase Expo will address these issues with outstanding speakers and exhibitors on February 25th and 26th.
Paper Dimensions LLC and Driven Solutions LLC Announce Strategic Partnership to Drive Mutual Business Development
Beaver Dam, Wisconsin – January 23, 2025 – Paper Dimensions LLC, a leading provider of custom slitting, rewinding, packaging, and inventory management services, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Driven Solutions LLC, a premier packaging solutions company based in River Falls, Wisconsin. This collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations to foster mutual business development and deliver enhanced value to their clients.
Paper Dimensions LLC, formerly K&L Services, has been a leader in the paper converting industry since 1972. With 50 years of expertise, the company specializes in precise slitting, efficient rewinding, custom packaging options, and comprehensive inventory management. Serving a diverse range of markets, Paper Dimensions is committed to delivering tailored, timely, and on-target solutions to meet the dynamic needs of its clients. (paperdimensionsllc.com)
Driven Solutions LLC is a strategic partner in custom packaging excellence, serving various markets such as medical, industrial, automotive, forestry, cannabis, converting, agriculture, pet products, retail, and food sectors. They offer tailored solutions, proactive monitoring, and cost reduction strategies to streamline inventory excellence, ensuring that clients receive packaging solutions that are both innovative and sustainable. (drivensol.com)
The partnership between Paper Dimensions LLC and Driven Solutions LLC is set to create synergies that will enhance the service offerings of both companies. By combining Paper Dimensions’ expertise in paper converting with Driven Solutions’ proficiency in packaging, the collaboration aims to provide comprehensive solutions that meet the evolving needs of their diverse client base.
Trista Rahn – VP Sales Paper Dimensions LLC
“We are thrilled to partner with Driven Solutions LLC,” said Peter Emenecker, President of Paper Dimensions LLC. “This alliance allows us to offer our clients integrated services that encompass both paper converting and packaging solutions, ensuring a cohesive approach to product development and market delivery.”
Rich Olson, President of Driven Solutions LLC, added, “Collaborating with Paper Dimensions LLC aligns with our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Together, we can deliver unparalleled value by merging our packaging expertise with their converting capabilities.”
Clients of both companies can look forward to a seamless integration of services that will enhance their market presence and operational efficiency. The partnership is effective immediately, and joint initiatives are already underway.
About Paper Dimensions LLC
Paper Dimensions LLC is a leading provider of custom slitting, rewinding, packaging, and inventory management services. With 50 years of expertise, the company serves a diverse range of markets, delivering tailored solutions to meet the dynamic needs of its clients. (paperdimensionsllc.com)
About Driven Solutions LLC
Driven Solutions LLC is a packaging solutions company specializing in serving various industries, including medical, industrial, automotive, forestry, cannabis, converting, agriculture, pet products, retail, and food sectors. They provide tailored packaging solutions, proactive inventory management, and cost reduction strategies to ensure clients receive innovative and sustainable packaging services.
Investment in advanced Mitsubishi fiber laser increases capacity
Robinson has made a major commitment to capacity enhancement through automated manufacturing with the installation of the Mitsubishi GX-F ADVANCED 12kW fiber laser and 20-shelf SmartFlex RAPID automation tower. This addition to our main De Pere, Wisconsin, facility delivers cutting speeds that are at least double those of previous laser generations.
A key component of automated manufacturing technology is the ability of the machine to access raw materials as needed. This is where the 20-shelf material tower comes into play. Standing three stories tall, the tower is the tallest in Wisconsin for any Mitsubishi customer. It holds up to 120,000 pounds of materials for rapid replenishment or changes.
“This investment in automated manufacturing gives us the ability to meet the demand that our customers are requesting,” states Jamie Tilkens, Process Improvement Manager at Robinson. “This generation of fiber laser completes faster, cleaner cuts without the burr issues common with previous generations. This enables us to increase capacity and deliver finished products in a faster timeframe.”
The ML 4020 GX-F ADVANCED model provides the expanded workspace needed for larger projects such as the power system enclosures for which Robinson is an industry leader. The unit can handle a maximum work piece size of 159.44 x 81.1 inches, or 3,637 pounds, with a maximum processing feed rate of 100 meters per minute.
The Mitsubishi GX-F ADVANCED 12kW fiber laser can support up to four lasers on the same line with the ability to independently load and unload units. The machine’s highly configurable and expandable design will allow us to reduce operational costs as customer demand evolves.
The unit uses advanced AI technology that monitors light and sound to optimize cutting performance and speed, change nozzles as needed, and maintain stability. The lasers leverage assist-gas technologies to configure the optimal mixes of nitrogen gas and shop air for specific materials and thicknesses.
“AGR cutting technology determines the right mixes to achieve higher feed rates and better cuts without consuming as much costly nitrogen,” Tilkens explains. “Adding another laser into the system will let us run multiple jobs at the same time. This level of automated manufacturing really sets us up for future capacity expansion.”
About Robinson, Inc.
Robinson, Inc., is a single-source metal solutions provider based in De Pere, Wisconsin. Robinson offers design, manufacturing and production fabrication for a wide range of industries. The company employs over 700 people at four Wisconsin locations comprising 770,000 square feet of manufacturing space.
The partnership makes CMD the exclusive North American Sales, Service and Spare Parts Partner for CMD/DAC Web Inspection Solutions
The CMD/DAC Vision Inspection System provides innovative solutions for a wide range of applications, including a wide variety of printed webs, label-stock, sheet-fed materials and corrugated board. By integrating cutting-edge technology with industry expertise, this system empowers businesses to attain exceptional levels of accuracy and reliability in their inspection processes. This strategic partnership harnesses CMD’s extensive network and profound understanding of the North American market, ensuring that these advanced vision inspection systems reach a wider audience, ultimately enhancing quality control and operational efficiency across various industries while positively impacting the environment by reducing waste.
January 23, 2025 – (APPLETON, WI) – CMD Corporation, a leading capital equipment manufacturer in the film converting and alternative energy markets, is excited to announce its new partnership with DAC Engineering, establishing CMD as the exclusive North American Sales, Service and Spare Parts Partner for the innovative CMD/DAC Web Inspection System.
“We are thrilled to partner with DAC Engineering,” said Tim Lewis, Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing at CMD Corporation. “Their vision inspection technology complements our commitment to providing high-quality solutions to our customers. By working together, we can offer unmatched service and support in integrating these systems into our clients’ operations.”
“We believe that this partnership will open up new opportunities for both companies and our clients alike,” said Yoshitaka Hikami – CEO at DAC Engineering. “By combining our expertise and resources, we can create solutions that truly reflect the needs of today’s businesses.”
CMD Corporation and DAC Engineering look forward to working together to provide exceptional vision inspection solutions to clients across North America.
For more information about the CMD/DAC Vision Inspection Systems or to inquire about our services, please contact: Scott Fuller CMD Intermittent Motion Product Line Manager 920-740-8728 Scott.fuller@cmd-corp.com
ABOUT CMD
CMD is a capital equipment manufacturer in the film converting and alternative energy markets. Built on a culture of integrity, we innovate unmatched profitable solutions for our customers and provide life-long service and support to the markets we serve. CMD designs and manufactures high-performance equipment for the plastic converting industry, including pouch packaging converting systems and patented, high-speed rotary bag and film converting lines. Custom engineering, process validation and machine optimization services are part of a consultative approach to customer care. Remote service technology and advanced data analytics for preventive maintenance and proactive production efficiency are advanced services that set CMD apart from other OEMs. The company serves a global marketplace through a network of sales and service associates worldwide. Equipment is manufactured to exacting standards at USA facilities. More information is available at www.cmd-corp.com and www.cmdenergy.com
ABOUT DAC ENGINEERING
DAC Engineering, founded in 1973, has been addressing visual inspection and quality control solutions in customer’s production lines through continuous study and development. With more than 30 years, of experience in image processing R & D, and as a pioneer in visual inspection technology, DAC is confident to offer the most suitable quality control solution.We have never compromised on the quality and the services provided to the customer. We believe in keeping the customers happy and providing them with the finest products with our slogan “Contribute to the society by image processing technology”.
Greenville, Wis. (January 21, 2025) – Katie Miner has been named president of QComp Technologies, a 100% employee-owned ESOP company. Greenville-based QComp is an innovative provider of integrated robotic systems for highly complex, end-of-line material handling in niche industries, including glass, consumer goods, non-wovens and food and beverage.
Miner, who was previously vice president of integration for OwnersEdge, had been serving as interim president of QComp. During her seven years with OwnersEdge, she held a number of finance-focused positions, including director of finance and corporate controller. QComp is part of OwnersEdge, a 100% employee-owned ESOP holding company that invests in and builds sustainable businesses throughout the Midwest.
“Katie possesses a unique combination of financial, operational and strategic skills which will enable her to make changes that will benefit our customers and employees alike,” said Rob Dillon, CEO of OwnersEdge. “Her direct, action-oriented style has been very effective in our fast-paced environment, and we’re excited to see her impact as she leads QComp to implement its strategic growth plan.”
QComp has a depth of engineering experience designing robotic solutions that pick, place, package and palletize “challenging” materials that are malleable, inconsistent or fragile. The company regularly works with glass and wet wipes and has established an outstanding reputation for reliable service and maintenance.
“We’re able to set ourselves apart in complex industries because of the expertise of our employees. They are the brains behind the robots,” said Katie Miner, president of QComp. “Our people have decades of experience and, because of that, our customers trust us to collaborate, design and deliver solutions that make them more efficient. I’m excited about the opportunity to guide QComp as we focus on its next stage of growth.”
Miner earned her Master of Business Administration in accounting from Concordia University – Wisconsin and her bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.
About QComp Technologies
Based in Greenville, Wis., QComp Technologies is an innovative provider of integrated robotic systems for highly complex end-of-line material handling in niche industries. QComp regularly works in challenging industries, including glass, consumer goods, non-wovens and food and beverage, and has established a track record of reliable service and maintenance. It is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and an OwnersEdge operating company.
About OwnersEdge
Based in Waukesha, Wis., OwnersEdge Inc. is a 100% employee-owned ESOP holding company that strives to invest in and build sustainable businesses throughout the Midwest. The operating companies within the OwnersEdge portfolio utilize their industry expertise to drive business growth and create value for stakeholders including customers, communities and the ESOP employee owners. The five companies in its portfolio – Asche & Spencer, BAYCOM, CC&N, Implecho and QComp Technologies – provide diverse products and services to a variety of market segments ranging from public safety to construction to manufacturing and music production.
Grounding is one of the most important concepts when working with electricity. The earth– or ground–is a stable reference point and provides a safe pathway for excess electrical current.
Grounding system testing ensures that excess electricity is directed to the ground and protects people and electrical systems from hazards such as power surges or lightning strikes.
What is an Electrical Grounding System?
An electrical grounding system is a safety feature built into an electrical circuit. It intentionally creates a low-resistance pathway to direct excess electricity to the ground using a dedicated wire. By providing a path for the current to escape safely, people and equipment are protected from electric shock.
The typical components of an electrical grounding system include a grounding electrode, often a metal rod driven into the ground, a grounding conductor or a grounding wire, and a connection point on the electrical system. Regular grounding system testing is critical to verify that each component is working as intended.
An electrical grounding system is essential in both residential and industrial settings to ensure safety and system reliability. In manufacturing environments, grounding systems help protect workers and equipment from harm caused by power surges while minimizing the risk of electrical faults to ensure uninterrupted operations. Grounding also plays a critical role in meeting regulatory safety standards and maintaining compliance with industry guidelines.
How to Test a Grounding System?
Grounding system testing requires a specialized tool called a megger or ground resistance tester. This device measures the resistance between the grounding electrode and the earth by applying a known voltage and measuring the resulting current. Grounding system testing ensures resistance values meet local electrical code standards, typically less than 25 ohms for most systems.
One testing method is the fall of potential test. It uses auxiliary electrodes that are driven into the ground at set distances from the grounding electrode being tested. Then, a test current is applied, and the voltage drop between the stakes is measured.
Another method is called stakeless testing. This advanced method can be performed without additional ground stakes and is typically reserved for situations where driving stakes would be impractical, such as urban environments, paved surfaces, or indoor facilities.
Common Grounding Issues
Over time, electrical grounding systems can develop problems that compromise their effectiveness, many of which can only be identified through grounding system testing. These problems include:
Loose Connections. Mechanical connections can loosen over time due to vibrations or thermal expansion.
Corrosion. Moisture or chemical exposure can corrode grounding components and increase resistance.
High Ground Resistance. Poor soil conductivity or damaged grounding electrodes can result in high resistance.
Broken Ground Wires. Physical damage to grounding conductors can interrupt the current’s path.
Improper Installation. Incorrectly installed grounding systems may not function as intended.
Electrical grounding systems in manufacturing and industrial environments should be inspected at least once yearly to ensure they remain effective and safe. More frequent inspections may be necessary in harsh environments or high-vibration areas where component deterioration and loose connections occur more frequently.
Inspections should also be completed after electrical maintenance, system upgrades, or equipment changes to verify proper grounding. Additionally, electrical grounding systems that support sensitive or critical equipment may benefit from quarterly inspections.
Regular grounding system testing and maintenance, combined with thorough documentation, can help prevent potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety standards. To learn more about maintaining your electrical grounding system and keeping your workers and equipment safe, contact Adam Kahler at akahler@quadplus.com or call (815) 210-9885.
Quad Plus 1379 Unit C Carlson Ave New Richmond, WI 54017
As a Senior Manager of Global Business Development (Tech) at Amazon, Michael Manley plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of consumer trust through the innovative Transparency program. With a focus on brand experience, Michael is responsible for implementing and operationalizing this groundbreaking item-level serialization service, which is rapidly becoming a global standard for ensuring product authenticity and safety. His leadership extends to a dedicated team that empowers global operations and cultivates a robust network of third-party Transparency Service Providers, ensuring that the program is not only scalable but also effective in enhancing consumer confidence.
Senior Manager of Global Business Development (Tech) at Amazon
Green Bay Innovation Group
Bringing Green Bay Companies Together. Green Bay Innovation Group is committed to building an authentic networking experience where innovation can thrive.
Zeta Group
BPM Inc
Vissum
Ahlstrom
Display Pack
OEC
Rocket Industrial
Sierra Coating
Anchor Packaging
Alajan Packaging
Marty with Hoffman crew
2025 Expo Speakers Heather Prach and Natha Dempsey with Marty
Heather Prach and Natha Dempsey speaking
Mark Hunter of Hoffmaster
Michael Manley-Amazon
Paul Murphy-Menasha Corporation
Group from UW Madison
